Watermelon extract lowers blood pressure better than dangerous pharmaceuticals

Heart disease and stroke continue to be the leading cause of death in the US, as vascular deterioration and dysfunction result in hypertension and ultimately, an early demise. Elevated blood pressure results in micro-cracks to the delicate endothelial lining of the blood vessels that must be patched by plaque (formed largely of circulating oxidized LDL cholesterol and calcium particles), beginning the process of atherosclerosis and greatly increased risk of heart attack.

Natural methods of lowering high blood pressure can allow the body to heal damaged vessels and arteries, dramatically lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. Researchers from Florida State University have published the result of a study in the American Journal of Hypertension that explains how natural watermelon extract helps reduce moderately elevated blood pressure by providing a rich source of the amino acids, citrulline and arginine, both known to relax vascular pressure.

Watermelon extract lowers blood pressure to normal range for many suffering from hypertension

In prior studies, citrulline and arginine have been shown as effective agents to reduce blood pressure, but further research was necessary to validate the results. The scientists recruited fourteen volunteers with an average age of 58 to receive either a concentrated watermelon extract (providing six grams of a citrulline/arginine mixture daily) or a placebo for a period of six weeks. They then observed a two week washout period with no supplementation before crossing over to the other group.

At the end of the study, researchers found that systolic pressure (upper blood pressure number) in the supplemented group was lowered in the arm and ankle by 15.1 and 11.5mmHg respectively, compared to the placebo participants. Diastolic pressure was lowered by 7.6 and 7.8 mmHg. For many participants, this reduction was enough to lower blood pressure from a pre-hypertension state to a normal reading, significantly lowering the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Of greater importance is the fact that the results observed are similar or better to those found with dangerous prescription ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers so commonly prescribed like candy by allopathic practitioners. The study authors concluded "This study suggests that watermelon extract improves arterial function... cardiovascular events were lower by about two-fold in those with normal ankle systolic blood pressure than in those with high ankle systolic blood pressure during a 15-year follow-up." Researchers found that blood pressure is lowered in a dose-dependent manner with optimal results found with six grams of citrulline/arginine each day.

Sources for this article include:
http://www.nature.com/ajh/journal/v25/n6/full/ajh201220a.html
http://www.nutraingredients.com
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/204527.php

About the author:
John Phillip is a Health Researcher and Author who writes regularly on the cutting edge use of diet, lifestyle modifications and targeted supplementation to enhance and improve the quality and length of life. John is the author of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan', a comprehensive EBook explaining how to use Diet, Exercise, Mind and Targeted Supplementation to achieve your weight loss goal. Visit My Optimal Health Resource to continue reading the latest health news updates, and to download your Free 48 page copy of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan'.

Source: http://www.naturalnews.com/036216_watermelon_extract_blood_pressure_remedies.html#ixzz1yMHzBO4o

Erectile Dysfunction - Natural Therapies

Natural Therapies for Relieving Erectile Dysfunction

Until recently, the very mention of erectile dysfunction or impotence could bring about a blush to even the most manly of men. Embarrassing as it may be, erectile dysfunction affects more than 18 million men in America. It can vary in severity from an inability to achieve, maintain and sustain an erection, to an inability to achieve an orgasm, even though a healthy sexual desire exists. Because of the sensitive nature of this disorder, it often goes unreported. 

 

Achieving a Normal Erection

Achieving a normal erection is a complex process. It involves psychological impulses from the brain, adequate levels of testosterone (male sex hormone), a functioning nervous system, and healthy vascular tissue of the penis. Electrical impulses from the brain, when stimulated, cause the nerves in the penis to release nitric oxide. This, in turn, increases the production of guanylate MonoPhosphate (cGMP) in the muscle cells of the corpora cavernosa (the tissue of the penis, consisting of smooth muscles, fibrous tissues, spaces, veins and arteries). The cGMP triggers the muscles of the corpora cavernosa to relax and fill with blood, which causes the penis to expand.

 

Erectile Dysfunction Factors

Because of the intricate nature of the physiological processes involved, a number of different factors can interfere with a man's ability to achieve a normal and healthy erection. The most common of these is aging. As a man gets older, his ability to produce nitric oxide decreases, thus affecting the proper functioning of the corpora cavernosa.

 

Diabetes and Erectile Dysfunction

A number of health issues can also underscore this disorder. The most frequently seen are diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Diabetes, for example, can damage the sensory nerves in the body. In turn, individuals who suffer from hypertension exhibit low nitric oxide production. Other factors that can contribute to erectile dysfunction include cardiovascular disease, nerve or spinal cord damage, cigarette smoking, low testosterone levels, prescription medications, depression, stress and anxiety.

Until recently, it was believed that little could be done to help a man who is suffering from erectile dysfunction, but there are a number of natural alternative health remedies that can be tried before having to rely on the “little blue pill."

 

Alternative Remedies and Wellness Recommendations for Erectile Dysfunction

• If you think your stress, anxiety or depression is affecting you physically, perhaps psychological counseling, meditation, bio-feedback or hypnotherapy can help.
  
  
• If you are taking prescription medications such as MAO inhibitors or anti-hypertensives, talk to your doctor about their possible side effects.
  
  
• Have your hormone levels checked. You might be suffering from low testosterone levels. In some men, low levels of the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) have also been reported. DHEA is essential for the production of testosterone.
  
  
• Quit smoking.
  
  
• Try supplementing with the amino acid L-arginine. Nitric oxide formation depends on sufficient levels of L-arginine in the body and has been found particularly effective for men with abnormal nitric oxide metabolism.
  
  
• Yohimbe bark has a history of helping men with erectile dysfunction. Yohimbe dilates blood vessels and may help regardless of the underlying cause. If you are on prescription medications, talk to your doctor before taking yohimbe.
  
  
• Muria puama can be used to increase the libido and erectile strength. It works best when combined with yohimbe bark. This combination can be found in Nature's Sunshine's X-Action for Men.
  
  
• In Mexico, the herb damiana is used as a male aphrodisiac and is an herb traditionally recommended for men with erectile dysfunction.
  
  
• In Peru, maca is known as a potent aphrodisiac. Maca is often called the herbal Viagra and does not alter circulation. Instead it works to regulate hormones and bring the body back into balance.
  
  
• Asian (panax) ginseng is an herb that has long been used to support male potency.
  
  
• Sarsaparilla has a history of being used as a tonic for male sexual potency and is thought to assist in the production of testosterone.
  
  
• Some men find relief when taking ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo biloba supports blood circulation and may help by increasing blood flow to the penis. This supplement is not recommended if you are taking any kind of prescription blood thinner.
  
  
• Traditionally used to lessen the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, saw palmetto stimulates a low libido and increases sexual energy.

Source: About.com
Author: Dr. Rita Louise